How Long Does It Take to Settle a Car Accident Claim After a Demand Letter?
After completing treatment for your injuries and working with your attorney, the next step in a car accident claim is often sending a demand letter to the insurance company. This letter outlines your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and your requested settlement amount. One of the most common questions clients ask is: “How long does it take to get a settlement after sending a demand letter?”
Typical Timeline
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer, but generally, insurance companies are given two to four weeks to review and respond to a demand letter. This time frame allows them to:
Review all medical records and bills
Investigate liability and fault
Consider the policy limits and coverage
Anything shorter than two weeks is often unprofessional and may not give the insurance company enough time to properly evaluate the claim, especially when they are managing multiple claims simultaneously.
Factors That Affect Timing
Several factors can influence how long it takes to settle:
Case Value: If your case is close to the at-fault driver’s policy limits, the insurance company may approve it more quickly.
Insurance Strategy: Some insurance companies intentionally delay making offers to maximize their own cash flow. This is a common tactic and does not mean your claim isn’t valid.
First Offer: Often, the initial offer from the insurance company is a lowball offer. Experienced attorneys know that the first number is rarely the final number and will negotiate on your behalf.
Disputes: If there are disagreements over liability, injuries, or damages, the settlement may take longer, or filing a lawsuit may become necessary.
Your Role and Your Attorney’s Role
You Decide: Ultimately, it’s the client—not the attorney—who decides whether to accept a settlement.
Attorney Guidance: Your attorney will advise you on whether the offer is fair, whether you can realistically get more, and the pros and cons of accepting versus pursuing a lawsuit.
Negotiation Power: A skilled attorney can turn a lowball offer into a fair settlement, ensuring you are fully compensated for your injuries, medical bills, and other damages.
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